Charikar - Discovering Afghanistan

Travelling to Charikar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Charikar, a pretty good destination in Afghanistan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Charikar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Charikar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Afghanistan, here's everything to know about Charikar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Charikar

Charikar is a city situated in the Parwan province of Afghanistan. It is approximately 70 kilometers north of Kabul, the capital city. The city has a population of around 120,000 people and is a strategic location for trade and transportation, as it lies on the Kabul River and is located at the crossroads of several major highways. The area is also known for its natural beauty, as it is surrounded by mountains and has a mild climate with cool breezes. The city has several historical and cultural sites, including the ancient city of Bagram and the Charikar Airfield.

What to visit in Charikar

Charikar is a city in Afghanistan located in the Parwan Province. While it is primarily a transportation hub, there are several attractions that travelers can visit: 1. Charikar Bazaar - This is a bustling market in the city that sells a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, jewelry, and clothing. It is popular with both locals and visitors and is a great place to experience the local culture.
2. Jabal Saraj - This is a scenic area located outside of Charikar that is known for its beautiful mountain views. It is a popular destination for hiking and trekking, and there are several trails that visitors can take to explore the area.
3. Bagram Airfield - This is a former US military base located near Charikar. While it is closed to the public, visitors can still see the perimeter fence and the remains of some of the buildings. It is a reminder of the recent conflict in the region.
4. Qargha Lake - This is a picturesque lake located about an hour's drive from Charikar. It is a popular spot for picnics and boating, and there are several restaurants and cafes around the lake where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
5. Pul-e-Khishti Mosque - This is an ancient mosque located in the center of Charikar. It dates back to the 9th century and is a great example of early Islamic architecture. Visitors can explore the mosque and learn about its history.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Charikar.

When to go on holiday to Charikar

It is important to note that the current travel advice for Afghanistan recommends against all travel to the country, including Charikar, due to the high level of violence and terrorism. However, if there were no security concerns, the best time to visit Charikar would be during the spring months (March to May) or during the fall months (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot, while the winter months (December to February) can be very cold and snowy. Keep in mind that there are many factors to consider when planning a trip to Charikar, beyond just the weather, such as safety concerns and cultural considerations.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Charikar

There are several ways to get to Charikar, Afghanistan depending on where you are coming from. Here are some options: 1. By air: You can fly to Kabul International Airport and then take a taxi or bus to Charikar, which is about a 2-hour drive away.
2. By road: Charikar is located on the Kabul-Mazar Highway, and you can take a bus or hire a private car from Kabul to Charikar. The drive takes around 2 hours.
3. By train: There is currently no train service to Charikar or Afghanistan in general.
It is important to check the latest travel advisory and security situation before planning a trip to Afghanistan. It is also recommended to hire a trusted local guide or tour operator for safety considerations.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Charikar, I recommend to check this link where you can find several offers for car rental.

Typical foods in Charikar

Charikar is a city located in the Parwan province of Afghanistan. The cuisine of Charikar is influenced by the traditional Afghan cuisine and includes a variety of dishes that are hearty, flavorful, and often prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Here are some typical foods of Charikar: 1. Kabuli pulao: This is the national dish of Afghanistan, and Charikar is no exception to its popularity. It is a rice dish cooked with lamb, beef or chicken, topped with caramelized onions, raisins, and carrots.
2. Mantu: This dish consists of steamed dumplings filled with spiced ground meat and onions, served with a tomato-based sauce and topped with yogurt and dried mint leaves.
3. Qabuli Uzbaki: A vegetable-rich version of the Kabuli pulao, this dish is made with basmati rice, mung beans, lentils, and vegetables like carrots, eggplant, and green peppers.
4. Kofta: This is a meatball dish made with ground lamb or beef combined with herbs and spices, served with a tomato-based sauce and Afghan bread.
5. Afghani bread: This is a staple food in Afghanistan, and Charikar is no exception. It is a type of bread that is baked in a tandoor (traditional oven) and served with every meal.
6. Shorwa: This soup is made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and a variety of vegetables like carrots, onions, and tomatoes. It is often seasoned with cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
7. Sheer Yakh: This is a sweet, refreshing beverage made with milk, sugar, and rose water, served over ice and topped with ground pistachios.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods of Charikar. Afghan cuisine is rich and varied, so there are many other dishes to try as well.
You can find general info about typical foods in Afghanistan here.

Is Charikar an expensive destination for tourists?

Charikar is not a well-known tourist destination in Afghanistan, so it may not have many facilities for tourists. However, in general, Afghanistan can be an expensive destination due to security concerns and limited infrastructure. It is also important to note that the overall cost of a trip to Charikar will depend on factors such as transportation, accommodation, and activities. It is recommended to research extensively and consult with local travel agencies to get a better understanding of the costs associated with traveling to Charikar.

Where to find accomodation in Charikar

Charikar is the capital of the Parwan province in Afghanistan, located around 60 km north of Kabul. If you're planning to visit Charikar, you may want to consider staying in Kabul since there are more accommodation options available there. Kabul has several popular areas for tourists, including the neighborhoods of Shar-e-Naw, Shashdarak, and Wazir Akbar Khan, which offer a range of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels to suit different budgets. Alternatively, you can also search for accommodations in nearby towns and villages like Bagram, which is situated just 20 km east of Charikar and is home to a US airbase.
You can check hotel prices at Charikar here:
Booking.com

Is Charikar a safe destination for tourists?

The security situation in Charikar, as well as in Afghanistan as a whole, is volatile and unpredictable. Due to ongoing conflicts and political instability, Afghanistan is currently not considered a safe destination for tourism. The US Department of State strongly advises against all travel to Afghanistan due to the serious risk of terrorist attacks, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. If you must travel to Afghanistan for essential reasons, please exercise extreme caution and stay informed about the latest developments in the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Afghanistan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Charikar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Charikar the most?

Charikar, Afghanistan is primarily a commercial and administrative city and may not offer many tourist attractions that cater to specific demographics such as couples, young people looking for fun, or families. However, there are some historical and cultural sites that may be of interest to travelers who enjoy exploring different cultures.
Charikar is home to the 3rd-century BC ancient Buddhist monastery of Takht-i-Rustam, which features beautiful rock carvings and historical significance. Additionally, there is the Bagram Airfield, which is a military installation that has played a significant role in the country's recent history.
Overall, Charikar may appeal to travelers interested in history, ancient architecture, or cultural experiences. However, it may not be the best destination for those looking for specific leisure or entertainment activities.

How to get around Charikar

In Charikar, the most common mode of transportation for locals and visitors is either by hired taxis or by public minibuses called "Toyota" or "Hiace". These vehicles follow fixed routes and are the most affordable way to get around. You can also hire a private car rental service for a more comfortable and flexible experience. However, it's important to keep in mind that roads in Charikar might not be as smooth as in other parts of the world, so a sturdy and robust vehicle is recommended. Additionally, it's always advisable to check security conditions before moving around in Charikar or any other place in Afghanistan.

What to see around Charikar

1. Bagram Airfield: This is an ancient military base with a lot of historical significance. It’s a great place to learn about Afghanistan's rich history.
2. Salang Pass: This is a mountain pass that offers amazing views, especially during the winter months when it's snowing.
3. Chihil Sutun: This palace is located in the center of Charikar and was once the residence of the governor of the province. It's a stunning testament to the country's ancient architecture.
4. Panjshir Valley: This is a beautiful valley with stunning scenery that features waterfalls, streams, and rugged hillsides.
5. Shahr-e Gholghola: This is the remains of an ancient city that was destroyed during the 13th century by Genghis Khan. It’s an interesting place to visit and learn about Afghanistan's history.
6. Darul Aman Palace: This is a palace located in Kabul and is one of the largest in Afghanistan. It's a great place to see the country's ancient architecture.
7. Paghman Palace: This is a popular summer resort area with beautiful gardens that feature fountains and geometric designs. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Afghanistan.
8. Band-e-Amir National Park: This is Afghanistan's first national park and features a series of six deep blue lakes surrounded by craggy cliffs. It’s a must-visit spot to experience the natural beauty of the country.
For every travel information about Afghanistan you can click here.

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